AQA A Level Media Studies Paper 1 2025 Question Paper

Get the official AQA A-Level Media Studies Paper 1 question paper from the May 2025 series (7572/1), sat on Monday 19 May 2025 (afternoon session). This is the full 2-hour exam paper worth 84 marks, covering Media Language, Media Representations, Media Industries, and Media Audiences.

The paper is divided into two sections. Section A focuses on media language and representation, beginning with analysis of an advertisement from the National Trust (page 2). Question 1 requires analysis of how language (words) provides anchorage to meaning (8 marks), testing students’ understanding of semiotics and media language theory.

Question 2 explores representations of place in media products, requiring students to link media texts (such as *Ghost Town*) to political and historical contexts (12 marks). Question 3 assesses intertextuality through the Close Study Product *Old Town Road* (9 marks), requiring students to analyse how meaning is shaped through references to other texts.

The Section A extended response (Question 4, 20 marks) evaluates Judith Butler’s theory that gender is a performance. Students must apply theory to Close Study Products *Score* and *Sephora*, demonstrating critical evaluation, theoretical understanding, and sustained argument.

Section B focuses on media industries and audiences. Question 5 tests key terminology related to ‘End of Audience’ theories, including digital natives, convergence, and prosumers (6 marks). Question 6 requires explanation of how cultural contexts create audience resonance, using *Newsbeat* as a case study (9 marks).

The final extended essay (Question 7, 20 marks) evaluates the statement that media industries are driven by minimising risk and maximising profit, using *Blinded by the Light* as a case study. This question assesses industry theory, audience understanding, and evaluative writing.

Use this paper to practise real exam questions, develop essay technique, and prepare for the 2026 AQA A-Level Media Studies exams. Ideal when paired with the official mark scheme for full exam preparation.

This document is for A-Level Media Studies students preparing for the 2026 exam series, including Year 13 students and retake candidates aiming for top grades.

It is also valuable for teachers and tutors who need authentic AQA exam materials for mock exams, revision sessions, and teaching exam technique across media theory and analysis.